The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has issued a cautionary statement to the government, advising against initiating constitutional reforms so close to the upcoming general elections. LAZ President Lungisani Zulu emphasized that such late-stage amendments could encounter significant political resistance and public skepticism.
Mr. Zulu highlighted that LAZ had consistently urged the United Party for National Development (UPND) government to establish a clear roadmap for constitutional reforms immediately after taking office. He noted that the early stages of governance presented an ideal opportunity to draft a constitution that reflects broad-based consensus.
Despite these persistent appeals, the government did not act on LAZ’s recommendations. Now, with approximately 18 months remaining before the next general elections, political tensions are escalating. Any attempt to amend the constitution at this juncture risks being perceived as politically motivated or designed to favor the ruling party.
The issue of constitutional reform in Zambia has a complex and contentious history. Over the past decades, multiple attempts have been made to amend the constitution, often leading to public debate and division. For instance, in 2016, a constitutional referendum was held alongside the general elections, aiming to amend and enhance the Bill of Rights and revise Article 79. Although 71% of voters supported the amendments, the referendum failed to meet the required threshold, rendering the results invalid.
Public sentiment towards constitutional reforms has been mixed. While there is a general consensus on the need for a constitution that upholds democratic principles and human rights, concerns have been raised about the inclusivity and transparency of the reform processes. In 2019, proposed amendments were criticized for potentially enhancing executive powers at the expense of the legislature and judiciary, leading to fears of authoritarianism.
Civil society organizations and legal experts have also expressed apprehension about the timing and nature of proposed reforms. The South African Institute of International Affairs noted that constitutional reform has become increasingly politicized in Zambia, with debates often reflecting deeper political tensions.
In light of this history, Mr. Zulu’s call for caution is particularly pertinent. He urges the government to ensure that any constitutional amendments are pursued in an open and consultative manner, involving a wide range of stakeholders to build consensus and avoid political controversy.
As Zambia approaches the next general elections, the path to constitutional reform remains fraught with challenges. Balancing the need for timely amendments with the imperative of maintaining public trust and political stability will be crucial in shaping the nation’s democratic future.
Its Politics….Politics….Politics…24/7….when are we going to find time to develop our own country and start manufacturing our own ARVs…..
Doesn’t LAZ have constitutional lawyers to help with reforms!?. This habit of waiting for government to move and then caution and criticize is getting boring
Whilst in opposition HH…i thought HH seriously wanted to develop Zambia but it turns out it was he was just blowing hot air….just like Pompwe Trump….He campaign message is now exactly the opposite….AMERICA FIRST but now it has become AMERICA EVERYWHERE….chipante pante
The fact that you don’t know how much kaloba Mr Lungu and his boys accumulated is the problem blinding your thinking brain. The country was on its knees leaving your economy in shambles. Able HH is trying to build a solid foundation both through fiscal and monetary policies he is implementing. As for you just chill and drink your chibuku
I will do it my way is the slogan BY FRANK SINATRA
UPND does not have a mandate from the People of Zambia to undertake constitutional reforms because they have failed on their election promises!! The next govt should be the one to undertake this task on a fresh mandate. At every turn they undermine existing govt institutions to serve themselves. We are virtually under a dictatorship. Those of you that have read history know that Hitler was actually elected in office democratically, but after being voted in he burnt the parliament and had a lot of leaders executed.Currently we have the same situation in Zambia and the fire at Manda hill will only be extinguished after the August 2026 elections
Four years of New dawn ,Zambians still waiting to see benefits of debt restructuring,
Cost of living going down,load shedding coming to an end,rate of dollar going down
And many more.lets not hear of it happening
In second term .
Your party damages th country in 10 years you want it fixed in 4 years, its that common sense or the empty one. UPND’s job was to 1). Stabilize the economy by debt restructuring 2). Take the country back to the basics in place like free education, etc. 3). Decenstralize govt policy and implementation, that my friend for results to show it will take time.
To untrained the benefits of debt restructuring are invisible, but take it this way: Thank the restructuring the Zambian economy did not implode
Yamene Aya MA reforms ni every government? MMD had reforms, PF was dabbling in reforms. Now it’s UPND
Perhaps we should do away with the constitution cos it doesn’t serve the citizens. It serves only the ruling politicians
UPND constitutional reforms already reached a dead end when they hinted to: alter 50.1% to first-past-the-post win; add the deputy ministers; increase presidential tenure; maintain cabinet when parliament dissolves; etc.
People have already rejected these changes. Due to recent increase in the numbers of MP, the UPND still feels they can give it a shot at dizzying speed hoping not to miss the golden opportunity it may present. Worth trying, so they think. But winning chances are in-between nil and slim.